Anticipating the Burma Army (BA) will launch more offensives in Karenni State, a civilian resistance group fighting against the military junta has instructed villagers to stock up on supplies for when they have to flee to the jungle.

“People need to prepare for things to get worse after BA increased its military operations in Karenni State and changed battalions,” said a Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) officer. “Clashes between BA and Karenni Army (KA) and KNDF could happen anywhere, anytime.”

According to KNDF, people should purchase more rice, dried and instant food, medicine, and they need to have at least three sheets of plastic. The plastic sheets can keep civilians dry when they have to flee fighting. They are also useful for collecting rain for drinking water in the jungle. Women need to buy feminine hygiene products and whatever things the children need.

According to the officer, on August 8, KNDF and KA ambushed a BA column west of Hpruso Township, killing 10 soldiers. Tensions between the armed groups are also high Loi Lin Lay, Loikaw Township and in Bawlakhe Township.